FlightHorizon COMMANDER traffic-detection or avoidance system

FlightHorizon COMMANDER is an airspace management software system from Vigilant Aerospace Systems for unmanned aircraft traffic detection and avoidance. It is one member of the FlightHorizon family of detect-and-avoid products, which use data from standard aviation transponders and radar, when available, to let unmanned aircraft self-separate from other aircraft and avoid mid-air collisions.

COMMANDER is designed for airspace managers, fleet operators and anyone who needs a wide view of an airspace. It tracks multiple aircraft in real time, maintains well-clear separation for unmanned aircraft and keeps detailed flight logs. The maker's buying guide places it between the ground-station product, FlightHorizon GCS, which serves a single pilot within 20 miles of the ground control station, and the onboard FlightHorizon PILOT product, which sends self-separation commands to the autopilot.

The FlightHorizon software is based on an exclusively licensed NASA patent and prototype. It gives operators a 2D map-based view and a 3D synthetic cockpit view of the airspace, with sensor fusion across aviation transponders and, when available, radars and online data feeds. This is what makes beyond visual line of sight operations easier to support with a clear picture of nearby traffic.

For integration, the maker lists optional online data feeds, which require an internet connection, and an optional radar module. Vigilant Aerospace also provides integration and development consulting: systems integration, software development of specialised hardware integration modules and user interfaces, testing of installed systems including transponder and radar installation, training of personnel, and compliance consulting on equipage and performance-based regulatory requirements.

The system is positioned to help operators maintain flight safety, pursue beyond visual line of sight flight authorisations and address FAA Part 107.205 waiver requirements. Typical applications are fleet operations, multi-aircraft airspace monitoring and detect-and-avoid support for commercial unmanned aircraft flying beyond visual line of sight, over water, at night, above 400 feet or near airports.